During the 1950s, a large pre-World War II map was displayed in each classroom at Holy Rosary Elementary School in Idaho Falls, depicting the British Commonwealth holdings predominantly in pink. This representation suggested that Canada and Alaska appeared significantly larger than they are, while British Honduras, located in Central America and facing the Gulf of Mexico, highlighted its historical ties to England. As part of an 18th-century Versailles treaty with Spain, Britain agreed not to expand its territory inland, focusing instead on coastal logging operations initiated in the mid-1600s. Belize, formerly British Honduras, gained independence in 1981 after a late 20th-century wave of colonial exodus.
The only prior connection to Belize for a traveler, described in the narrative, came during a snowstorm at the Atlanta airport more than 30 years ago. There, a couple returning from Jamaica, who had launched a commuter airline in Belize called Tropic Air, engaged in conversation over shared rum bottles as they awaited flight clearance. Years later, the traveler found reason to visit Belize while staying at a fly-fishing lodge on Ambergris Caye, where the beauty of the country rekindled interest in its culture.
Escaping the complexities of contemporary U.S. politics, the traveler and their spouse sought solace at Belizean beaches that unfortunately faced challenges due to sargassum seaweed accumulation. Despite this, Ambergris Caye’s bayside offered a more inviting environment. The influx of sargassum, linked to runoff from agriculture, has impacted beaches across the Caribbean, leading to various environmental concerns such as the presence of harmful substances like arsenic.
Transportation on the Caye mainly consists of gas-powered golf carts, which have gained popularity among retirees. With a population of around 400,000, Belize offers affordable seaside condos starting around $200,000 to $250,000. One snorkeling excursion revealed a thriving underwater ecosystem, featuring lobsters, rays, and sharks. While the traveler was eager to explore inland Mayan archaeological sites, they settled for a Mayan cooking class that included making dark chocolate candy and piña coladas from fresh ingredients.
During their time in Belize, the traveler read Canadian author Emily St. John Mandel’s latest book, “Exit Party,” which delves into themes of America’s political landscape through dystopian narratives. The story explores parallel universes and examines the consequences of a fractured democracy, portraying chaotic scenarios and authoritarian regimes.
A local shopkeeper in Belize commented on his country’s political situation, likening it to the nuances of American politics, saying, “Like you, we have two political parties — ‘the little thieves and the bigger thieves.’ Our little thieves won last year and things have gotten a little better.” This remark resonated with the traveler, who recognized the shared sentiments surrounding political dissatisfaction.
Upon returning to the U.S., the traveler reflected on their grandfather’s perspective on societal changes, recalling his discontent with Alvin Toffler’s “Future Shock,” which painted a grim picture of societal evolution. Inspired by this connection, the traveler planned to revisit the book after discovering a vintage copy, curious about its relevance today.
The traveler noted political commentary emerging from contemporary media, warning about potential shifts in American political identity and urging new democratic pathways to navigate future challenges, distancing from the polarized past.
Miller Hudson is a public affairs consultant and a former Colorado legislator.
